Approach and barriers to the assessment and treatment of individuals with co-occurring OCD and PTSD: Treatment providers’ perspectives

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur, and phenotypic and functional similarities between the disorders necessitate assessment and treatment considerations by providers. To date, no research has reported on mental health treatment providers’ approach to, and barriers associated with, assessing and treating patients with this complex comorbidity. The present study included 169 mental health providers, the majority of whom were cognitive behaviorally-oriented specialists who had recently treated co-occurring OCD and PTSD. Having a doctorate degree and overall years of experience predicted greater perceived competence to assess and conceptualize co-occurring OCD and PTSD. Recent clinical experience with co-occurring OCD and PTSD predicted perceived competence to conceptualize and treat individuals with both disorders. PTSD specialists perceived themselves as more competent to treat co-occurring OCD and PTSD than non-PTSD specialists. Most providers indicated some barriers to adequate assessment and treatment of individuals with co-occurring OCD and PTSD, including competing priorities and lack of time. Implications of findings are discussed within the context of future training targets to equip providers with the tools needed to conduct comprehensive and accurate diagnostic and functional assessment, as well as provide evidence-based treatment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with co-occurring OCD and PTSD.